“Be Ambassadors of Our Culture” – Bonny Monarch Urges Boat Regatta Visitors as Wilcox House Emerge 2024 Winners  

The Amanyanabo and Natural Ruler, His Majesty, King Edward Asimini William Dappa Pepple III, CON, DSSRS, JP, Edward I, Perekule XI has enjoined visitors to the island to be ambassadors of rich culture, beautiful festivals and unique history of the area.

Delivering his royal address during the Bonny Kingdom Boat Regatta on Thursday, December 26, 2024 along the Admiral Waterway, Coal Beach in Bonny, Rivers State, the Monarch noted that the island has for long been a hub for unique and vibrant cultural displays, especially, during the holidays.

This year was no different as the Bonny Kingdom Boat Regatta took center stage featuring 11 teams from which Wilcox House emerged victorious, followed by Banigo House and Benstowe House, which emerged first runner-up and second runner-up, respectively.

The King emphasized the need for spectators to look beyond the festivities and focus on the deeper message of the festivities, urging them to connect with the culture, explore the stories behind the traditions and leave as ambassador of Bonny Kingdom’s beauty and heritage.

“For centuries, the Regatta has been the cornerstone of our heritage, symbolizing the resilience, skill and unity of the Bonny People. This colourful boat, powered by synchronized rowing and steadfast determination are a tribute to the maritime traditions that have defined us coastal people. Yet, this event is not just for us, it is also an invitation to the world. 

“To our esteem visitors, welcome to Bonny Kingdom, the grand nexus of the Niger Delta, where you will find more than breathtaking scenery. You will discover a people deeply rooted in tradition, passionate about their history and eager to share the beauty of their culture with you.

“Bonny Boat Regatta is a century experience like no other. It is the sound of cheers echoing across the waters, the sight of vibrantly adorned boats racing in harmony. If you enjoyed these festivities, let the Regatta’s deeper messages resonate with you.

“For our people, it is a reminder of our strength in unity and our duty to preserve the legacy of our ancestors. To our visitors, it is an invitation to connect with our culture, explore the stories behind our traditions and to leave as ambassador of Bonny Kingdom’s beauty and heritage. For everyone, it is a testament to the timeless values of teamwork, perseverance and respect.”

“I thank the organisers, Grafton Entertainment, participant and every individual whose dedication has brought this event to life, to our men and women, you are the heart of this celebration, it is your passion and spirit that inspired all of us to rise to the challenges of our lives…”

The event, which was organized by Graftons Entertainment, held with pomp and pageantry, as it served as a platform to reconnect the Ibani Ijaw people to their cultural roots.

The Regatta featured a spectacular display of colorful boats, as well as a stunning display of synchronized rowing and steadfast determination, showcasing the canoeing skills and resilience of the Bonny people.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chief Executive Officer of Graftons Entertainment, Tonye Ibiama emphasized the need to preserve fading traditions as he unveiled the organizers’ vision to establish a cultural and tourist center in Bonny Kingdom.

“Our dream is to create a place where our traditions can thrive and be passed down through generations,” Ibiama stated, inviting stakeholders to support the initiative.

Acknowledging the contributions of key supporters, Ibiama expressed gratitude to His Majesty, King Edward I, and the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG).

“His Majesty’s leadership is akin to having the best coach any team could wish for, guiding us towards success. NLNG’s support as a sponsor this year is commendable, but we want more from you.”

He also appealed to the Bonny Local Government Chairman to engage with boat operators for better discipline and cooperation in future events.

The 11 competing teams attempted to paddle their way to victory and claim part of a N4.5 million cash prize, but it is was Wilcox House which emerged victorious in a feisty four-house final, which consisted of eventual third place finishers, Benstowe House, second place finishers, Banigo House and 2023 Champions, Dublin Green, which did not get a podium finish.

The event highlighted the importance of collaboration to ensure the survival of Bonny’s heritage and culture, just as next year’s regatta promises to inspire unity and a brighter future for Bonny Kingdom.